Under maximum ground-fault current flow conditions, what should an effective equipment grounding system incorporate?

An effective equipment grounding system must incorporate adequate conductance to ensure safety and efficiency during maximum ground-fault current flow conditions. Adequate conductance allows the grounding system to effectively carry fault currents safely to the ground, minimizing the risk of electric shock or fire hazards.

When a ground fault occurs, the grounding system's primary role is to provide a low-resistance path for fault currents back to the source. This reduces the voltage rise on non-current-carrying conductive surfaces, reducing the risk of electrical shock to personnel. Additionally, by ensuring that adequate conductance is present, it helps in tripping protective devices quickly, leading to prompt disconnection of faulty circuits.

In contrast, options that suggest inadequate conductance or the presence of fire hazards are contrary to the basic principles of an effective grounding system. Adequate conductance is fundamental to both the safe operation of electrical systems and the overall electrical safety protocols.